Are Titanium Implants Safe?
Simply stated, yes! Titanium dental implants are safe and effective. They have been used for over 50 years and have been studied extensively over this period. The dental implant functions as the anchor for a fake but realistic-looking tooth. Once the implant is integrated into the bone, the tooth built to match the natural teeth is connected. Though this procedure might sound a bit complex and uncomfortable, the truth is it is completely safe. As long as you have a strong jawbone, dental implants can be connected without a problem. However, there are a few risks to this procedure as outlined below.
The Safety of Dental Implants
Dental implants can resolve joint pain or bite problems while restoring a patient’s chewing, speech, and digestion to excellent levels, but every medical and dental procedure comes with some risks. Though rare, it is possible for a patient to develop an infection at the site of the dental implant or for there to be some minor nerve damage. However, these occurrences are few and far between. Most patients enjoy dental implants that cause absolutely no problem whatsoever.
Implanting a Foreign Object in the Body
For many patients, the primary concern with dental implants is having a foreign object placed in their mouth. Metals are used for dental implants because of their favorable mechanical properties, such as weight-to-strength ratio and good biological performance. However, metallic devices can suffer from corrosion. The good news is that the material used for dental implants, Titanium, is one of the least reactive metals, meaning that is has relatively lower corrosions rates.
Patient Habits Matter
It is important to maintain solid oral hygiene habits to keep your mouth clean and free from harmful bacteria in order to protect the integrity of dental implants and your remaining teeth. Habits like chewing tobacco, smoking cigarettes, excessive use of alcohol, or a lack of fruit and vegetables in your diet can have a negative impact on the long-term viability of dental implants. Furthermore, if the patient lacks adequate jawbone or a strong jawbone, it will not be possible to place the dental implants. Ample jawbone of considerable strength is necessary for the dental implants to remain firmly in place at all times.
Do I Need to See a Specialist?
Not every dental practice will offer implants, but here at Apple Valley Dental Group our doctors have the experience, training, and expertise to help you through this process. Dr. Paul Byers graduated with his D.D.S. in 1989 and didn’t stop there. During his time with the Navy, Dr. Byers returned to school to obtain his Masters in Operative Dentistry and later achieved a Mastership Certificate with the International Dental Implant Association. Dr. Harry Sartelle, III is an active and trusted member of the ADA, VDA, and SVDA, having served for many years as part of the board of the Shennandoah Valley Dental Association. He has practiced dentistry in Front Royal for more than 35 years and at this point there isn’t much he hasn’t seen.
If you have any questions about dental implants and would like more information, call our office today to schedule an appointment and Drs. Byers and Sartelle, along with their amazing staff, will be happy to get you started on the road to a happier, healthier smile.